Cacti and succulent plant species as phytoplasma hosts: A review

The trade in ornamental cacti and succulent plants has been developed into an important industry, and it is accountable for the intercontinental commercialization of many new and old species. Several cacti are hosts for phytoplasmas and this could cause a severe threat to agriculture. Despite its deleterious effects, phytoplasma infection is considered useful, and as an added ornamental value in some cacti and succulent species. Diseases associated with phytoplasmas presence and their interaction with cacti and succulent species are reviewed.